As we navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic, washing our hands regularly has become a critically important aspect of our daily lives. While we all know that washing our hands is key to warding off harmful bacteria and viruses, the constant washing and sanitizing can also take a toll on the health of our skin. Dry, cracked hands can be not only unsightly but also uncomfortable and painful.
But don’t despair! There are steps you can take to keep your hands healthy and hydrated, even with all the washing and sanitizing that’s necessary right now. In this article, we’ll explore why hand hydration is essential for healthy skin and overall wellness, and what you can do to ensure that your hands stay soft, supple and healthy.
The Importance of Hand Hydration
Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and one of its main functions is to act as a barrier to the outside world. When your skin is healthy and hydrated, it’s better able to serve this function. However, when your skin is dry and cracked, it’s more vulnerable to damage from environmental irritants and can be more easily penetrated by bacteria and viruses.
In addition to its protective function, your skin also plays a critical role in regulating your body’s temperature and maintaining a healthy immune system. When your skin is dehydrated, it can’t perform these functions as effectively, which can leave you feeling tired, sluggish and more susceptible to illness.
Why Washing Your Hands is So Important – and How It Can Affect Your Skin
As we’ve heard repeatedly over the last year and a half, washing your hands frequently with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses. But what exactly does all that washing do to your skin?
First and foremost, it can strip your skin of its natural oils, which are essential for maintaining hydration and protecting your skin from damage. This is especially true if you’re using harsh soaps or sanitizers that contain alcohol, which can be particularly drying.
In addition, washing your hands frequently can also disrupt the pH balance of your skin, which can make it more vulnerable to damage and inflammation. And finally, all that washing and drying can lead to cracking and peeling, which can be incredibly painful and can even put you at risk for infection in severe cases.
How to Keep Your Hands Healthy and Hydrated
With all the washing and sanitizing that’s necessary right now, you might be wondering if there’s anything you can do to keep your hands healthy and hydrated. The answer is yes! Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Use a gentle, moisturizing soap. Look for soaps that are labeled «gentle» or «moisturizing,» and avoid anything that contains harsh chemicals, fragrances or dyes.
2. Apply lotion or cream regularly. After washing your hands, apply a thin layer of lotion or cream to help lock in moisture. Look for products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin or shea butter, which are all great for hydrating the skin.
3. Wear gloves when cleaning or doing other tasks that can be hard on your hands. Whether you’re doing the dishes, gardening or cleaning the house, wearing gloves can help protect your hands from harsh chemicals and other irritants.
4. Avoid hot water. While it might feel nice to wash your hands with hot water, it can actually be quite drying. Stick to lukewarm water instead.
5. Drink plenty of water. Hydrating your skin from the inside out is just as important as moisturizing it from the outside in. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to help keep your skin (and the rest of your body) healthy and hydrated.
Conclusion
Keeping your hands healthy and hydrated is essential for maintaining overall wellness. With a few simple tweaks to your hand-washing routine and some regular use of moisturizing creams and lotions, you can keep your hands soft, supple and healthy, even in the midst of a pandemic. Remember to be gentle with your skin, avoid harsh chemicals and irritants, and drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated from the inside out. Your skin (and the rest of your body) will thank you!